#bucky barnes holiday

[buckyalpine]

I know it’s late foe Christmas, but maybe this with Bucky? Any Bucky you want. Reader didn’t celebrate Christmas the way Bucky did when he was small, so both reader and their kid are so excited for experiencing Christmas in a new way, choosing Christmas tree, decorating it, preparing gifts, having Christmas dinner, and so on.

Thanksssss!!!!

18+

NEVER TOO LATE, in fact there's just 357 days left until next Christmas, so lets get an early start shall we? This is not a late Christmas fic okay, we’re just super early. 

So much flufffyyy fluffff and bonus smutttt (breeding kink, pregnancy kink)

Imagine Bucky loved Christmas when he was little because his Ma would always have the perfect dinner ready, a knitted sweater along with a few small presents under the tree. He’d leave milk and cookies out for Santa with his sisters and being the sweet big brother he is, he’d make sure to wake up in the middle of the night to drink half the glass and finish up what they’d left out. 

As he got a little older, he got excited to be able to buy presents for them too. He’d save up for the entire year so he could get them something nice. He’d find the perfect doll for his sister, jewelry for his ma, a watch for his dad. He’d make sure Steve joined them every year along with his family. 

He adores the holidays because it brings family together and now that he has one of his own and a home, he’s ready to go all in. 

Buying the tree 

Bucky grinned, carrying Becca on his shoulders while you walked though through the tree lot, inspecting which one would be the best for this year. You smiled at the scent of the fresh pine needles that lingered in the air. You couldn’t tell who was more excited; Bucky, you or your daughter. You walked past a number of them, some super tall, short, narrow and scanty. 

“Daddy that one!” She pointed to a plump full tree, her tiny hands patting Bucky’s head so he’d know where to look. “That one please!” 

“You like that one jellybean?” He walked over to the large tree, chuckling to himself hearing her excited sequels from above his head. After picking the tree, Bucky strapped it to the hood of the car, excited to go home and start decorating. He pulled up to the drive way, easily grabbing the tree and shaking it a few times while you gave him an odd look. 

“Gotta shake it or we’ll have spiders in here” Bucky snorted, giving the tree a few more precautionary shakes, knowing full well if he failed to do so, he’d be on spider duty for the next week. The human spider he had to work with was enough for him. 

“C’mon bub, lets get the durations out!” You scooped your daughter from her car seat, the both of you running into the house and changing into some comfy clothes before setting out some decorations and crafting supplies. Bucky brought the tree in, deciding to set it up in the living room near the fire place while Becca got started on crafting. 

“This is the first real tree I’ve ever decorated” You looked at the perfect tree in awe, while Bucky smiled, kissing your temple and untangling the Christmas lights. 

“What did you used to do for Christmas, baby?” 

“Hmm, we always had a plastic tree” You thought back to the sad tree your family pulled out year after year, the scanty branches nearly nonexistent. “Never had a real one” 

“Daddy, help me make a weindeer” Becca was splayed on the floor, felt sheets and markers surrounding her. You smiled, watching Bucky hold her tiny hand to trace the brown felt sheet, the both of them with identical expressions, fully focused on making the perfect reindeer decoration. By the end of the night, you had a felt snowman, felt reindeer and your absolute favorite; a little white wolf. 

“Just like daddy” She grinned, handing it to him, insisting he put it up. Bucky swallowed the lump that tried to form in his throat, kissing her chubby cheek before carefully hanging it on the tree. “Can we put the star up now, please?” 

“Of course angel” Bucky lifted her up, as she placed the star on top of the tree, his eyes wide with amazement at the finished Christmas tree. 

Wrapping presents

You snorted, watching Bucky grumble under his breath, another piece of tape stuck to his arm while he tried to wrap Steve’s gift. Of all Christmas activities, wrapping gifts was his least favourite. He was happy to cut paper, ribbon and tape but he wasn’t a fan of figuring out how much paper you needed and why all of his folds were soo crooked. 

“You okay there Buck?” you asked teasingly while he looked at you with puppy eyes, nudging the box towards you, hoping you’d finish while he focused on the gifts that went in bags. You wordlessly took the box, switching so he could add tissue paper to Tony’s bag instead. 

“How ya doing there jellybean?” Bucky looked over his shoulder to see Becca huff on the floor, unrolling even more paper so she could wrap the skateboard she had picked out for Morgan. 

“I can do it!” She stated, determined to wrap the present for her best friend all by herself without help. 

You added name tags and bows to everything, using your husband as a human wall while you quickly got started on your daughters gift and she was thankfully too distracted to see what you had been up to.  You had both bought her her first doll house, one that was as tall as her (there was no convincing Bucky to get a smaller one, his babygirl would get the nicest doll house to play with) 

“You never told me what you wanted for Christmas doll” Bucky playfully nudged you while you giggled, adding a few bows to the gift. 

“Hmm, do I get to have my super solider for Christmas this year? That’s all I really want” You look at him with hopeful eyes, worried a last minute mission would take him away. 

“Nothing could take me from you on Christmas, I’ll be right under the tree with a bow in my hair if you asked me to baby” Bucky smiled, “Now what does my angel actually want” You shook your head, swatting him away as you started to clean the table. There truly wasn’t anything you wanted but to have him with you. 

(Of course what you don’t know is he’s already wrapped your gift and hidden it in the closet)

Christmas Eve 

“Does Santa like Oreo’s or Gingerbread men?” Becca rummaged through the boxes of cookies, carefully inspecting each one so she’d have the perfect assortment by the tree. 

“I think Santa like’s chocolate chip cookies, maybe even some of the sugar ones and if you’re feeling generous tonight, maybe Santa would appreciate a glass of daddy’s special apple juice” Bucky 

“That’s what you and mama like!” She got to work getting out two of each cookie before grabbing a glass for the milk. “Daddy you pour the apple juice” 

“Oh my god” You snorted while Bucky grinned to himself, adding a glass of whisky beside the milk. 

“Time for bed now baby, Santa will only come by if you’re asleep” Your baby gave you grabby hands, happily cuddling into you while you carried her to her room, tucking her into the sheets. 

You went back down, giggling when you say Bucky with a Santa hat, munching on the cookies, patting on the seat for you to join him while he sipped on the dark liquid. 

“Naughty Mr. Clause” You pecked a kiss onto his nose, squeaking when he pulled you onto his lap. 

“Naught for you Mrs. Clause” He winked, bringing you down for a kiss, the both of you cuddling by the fire place. He couldn’t help but run his hands through your hair, humming at the softness of your lips, chasing more of you each time you pulled away for air. 

“What if Becca wakes up” You panted, your forehead resting on his. 

“Then she’ll understand the song I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Clause” He smirked, pulling you in for another kiss. 

Christmas day

“Merry Christmas sweet heart” Bucky mumbled, his voice still low and laced with sleep. He slung his arm around, pulling you close so he could cuddle with you for a while before opening presents. He whined as you wiggled out of his hold to grab him something from the closet, stroking his hair to coax him awake. 

“I wanted to give this to you now” You whispered, placing a soft wrapped gift on his lap as he sat up, curiously inspecting the present. His eyes grew wide as he took apart the paper, a thick warm knitted sweater with the initials JBB embroidered on the inside of the neckline. “I made it for you, just like how you Ma used to” 

Bucky blinked back the tears that welled in his eyes, running his hand over the soft material. Ever since he had been telling you about all the Christmas traditions he had with his family, you wanted to give Bucky something that came from his childhood. 

“I love you” Was all Bucky could muster, biting his lip, throwing it on before kissing you deeply and then slipping out of bed to get Becca. 

Your eyes grew wide at the large pile of presents, there were easily 6 more than what you had remembered. 

“Bucky, what-” 

Bucky gave you a cheeky smile, proud of himself for sneaking away as you slept, placing the extra presents under the tree in the middle of the night. 

“Merry Christmas mama!” You felt her tiny arms wrap around you thighs, her face squished against them. 

“Merry Christmas babygirl” You kissed the top of her head, her full focus on the large pile of gifts under the tree. 

“May I open them now?” She bounced on her heels, “Please?” 

She didn’t waste a second as soon as you nodded, grabbing the large red box with her name on it, squealing and jumping into your laps, peppering as many kisses as she could on both of you. 

“Mama, daddy, you bought me a doll house?!” Her large eyes twinkled, her hands grasping onto Bucky’s cheeks. 

“Do you like it bub” He smiled while she scrambled out of his lap to assemble it. You shook your head at the little pile of gifts that all had your name on it while Bucky waited for you to open them, excited to see you smile. 

“Bucky, what did you do” You shook your head, gasping as you opened the first box; a dainty gold chain sitting on a velvet cushion. 

“Spoiling my little girl and my wife” He shrugged, taking the chain out of the box so he could clasp it around your neck. “Here, I think you’ll like this one the most” He grabbed the last bag, plopping it onto your lap, his heart racing as he watched you pull off the tissue paper. You gasped, pulling out a soft blue teddy bear that was made from the material of one of his Henley's. 

“My ma used to make them if we couldn’t fit into our shirts anymore. I know you like to wear them but I thought you might like this too” He blushed, while you looked at him with teary eyes, clutching the bear to your chest. “Maybe he can keep you company when I go on long missions” 

“I love it so much James” You kissed his scruffy cheek, bringing the bear to your face, humming contently at the way his scent lingered on the material. “and I love you”

Christmas dinner 

Bucky poured drinks while you carried appetizers to and from the kitchen; the house filled with music, laughter and all of the team and their families. The kids had gathered by the TV to watch a movie while everyone else piled in your living room, a mass of wrapping paper and ribbons all over the place from unwrapping more presents. 

You giggled to yourself, watching Sam and Steve team up with Tony and Nat for an intense game of flip cup; Thor made sure he brought bottles of mead so the super soldiers could drink. 

“Someone looks happy” You snorted as Bucky made his way over to you, a goofy grin plastered on his face. 

“Very happy angel” He pulled you to a quiet corner to sneak a few minutes with you, his hands roaming up and down your waist before playfully grabbing your ass. “Can’t keep my hands to myself when you’re walking around tempting me in this dress” 

“Trying to have fun already?” You sassed, poking his side. He pulled you flush against him, inhaling the sweet scent of your perfume, enjoying the warmth of your body. He peeked up for a moment to check on the guests, his heart swelling with seeing everyone together. At his home. With his family. 

“YO BARNES STOP DRAGGING YOUR WIFE TO THE MISTLE TOE AND BE MY PARTNER” Bucky snorted hearing Sam’s voice carry through the corridor, reluctantly pulling away from you. “I’ll have to sneak you away again in a bit doll” He kissed you once more before joining by Sam’s side. 

Of course the rest of the night goes by with more antics, plenty of food, more of sneaky love struck Bucky and you both wouldn’t have it any other way.  After everyone had left, you curled up on the couch with Bucky, Becca tucked to your side, nodding off, her eyes heavy with sleep. 

“Hmm, bed time bug” Bucky plucked Becca from your lap, carrying her over to her room and tucking her in carefully. He kissed her forehead while she snuggled into her sheets, cuddled up with her newest falcon plushie. 

“Night daddy” 

“Sleep tight baby” Bucky was about to make his way out until he heard her little voice again. 

“Daddy?” He turned around to see her curious face thinking about what she wanted to ask, blinking up at him before speaking. “Can Santa bring me a brother?” 

“A brother?”

“Uh huh. We don’t get to see Cass and AJ or Morgan all the time. I have no one to play with at home” 

Bucky melted at her pouty face and puppy eyes, a signature look she had 100% inherited from him. He chuckled, giving her one last kiss before turning on her night light. 

“Maybe for next Christmas, does that sound good?” 

Bonus: Making Becca’s second gift

You were curled up in bed with a book while Bucky walked in, quietly closing the door behind him. 

“Y’know, Becca actually wanted a different Christmas gift” Bucky wiggled his eyebrows while you cocked your head, gasping when he grabbed your thigh and pulled you to lie down against the pillows. He crawled on top of you, setting your book aside before settling himself between your legs causing your oversized t-shirt to ride up. 

“Yeah? And what’s that” 

“She wants a little sibling to play with” Bucky smirked, trailing a few featherlight kisses on your neck. 

“Does she now?” You could feel your heartrate pick up, warmth already pooling between your legs. 

“She does” He ran his tongue down the column of your neck. His cock was hard, pressing against your needy core, gently rocking his hips, groaning at the way your thighs squeezed around him. You moaned, spreading your legs further for him, bucking your hips up slightly to chase the friction of his cock rubbing on you.  “What do you think mama? One more?”

“One more” You whimpered, desperate to have him in side you. Bucky sat back on his heels, pulling up you to strip your shirt off, and raising your hips to toss your panties away. He wasted no time throwing his boxers off, settling between your legs again, rubbing his bare cock against your entrance. 

“You gonna let me put a baby in you?” There was no time for foreplay or prepping for tonight, the both of you now desperate. You whined, frantically nodding, waiting for Bucky to do something but he clicked his tongue, shaking his head. “Say it, tell me what you want me to do” 

“Put a baby in me daddy” You moaned, clinging your arms around his neck, your arousal soaking the tip of his cock. 

“You want daddy to put a baby in you?” He nudged the tip inside, teasing you, loving the way your eyes pleaded with him, your desperate moans spurring him on more. 

“Please? Please daddy”

“Don’t worry doll, m’right here” You both gasped at the feeling of him filling you, inch by inch until he was fully seated inside you. “M’right here angel” Bucky could feel his cock already throb, the very idea of getting you pregnant again made him extra sensitive. 

“Move Bucky, please” He started to slowly rock his hips, placing soft kisses along your hairline, resting his forehead against yours. He loved the feeling of your arms wrapped around his body, your legs tight around his waist. He loved the sweet sounds that left your lips, moaning with you over how perfect you felt, how desperately in love he was with you. 

“M’so lucky, you know that doll?” He pulled up slightly to look at your eyes, rolling his hips a little faster, chasing more of your warmth “Can’t believe your my wife, mother of my child-fuck-how did I get so lucky” 

“I l-love you” Your nails dug into his back, pulling him so his full body weight was on you, the coil in your belly already starting to build feeling him so close. Bucky groaned, giving you deeper thrusts, angling his hips slightly to pull all the way out before slamming back in. You cried out in pleasure, his lips coming down to swallow your moans while he started to drip in your cunt. “Want a baby like you Bucky” 

“Yeah? You want a little baby like me?” Your words made his cock throb, nearly cumming on the spot while you gazed at him with heart eyes, nodding while moving your hands to cup his face. 

“Fuck-just like you Bucky!” 

“Wanted-fuck-wanted to make love to you baby, get you pregnant with my babies while I feel all over you but you make it so hard baby, I just-I just-m’already gonna fucking cum, you feel so good”

“Oh fuckkk-keep-keep going Bucky don’t st-stop” You could feel the hair at the base of his cock rub against your clit, the veins in his cock pulsing. 

“Never, I love making babies with you, mama” He panted against your neck, his hand coming to lace with yours, pinning the on the bed. “Prettiest mama ever, not gonna be able to keep my hands to myself when you’re pregnant angel, tellin you right fucking now, m’gonna fuck you and make love to you even when your all swollen and round”

You moaned, your pussy clenching and fluttering at his words while he lost himself further, grunting and panting with each thrust. 

“You feel that huh? How hard my cock is for you baby, fuck-how swollen it is when I get to knock this pretty pussy up”

“Get me pregnant Buckyyy” You could feel your orgasm right on edge, your pussy gripping onto his cock with a vice like hold. 

“Yeah? Daddy’s gonna get you pregnant angel, can fell my balls throbbing-shit-so heavy baby-almost hurts” 

“Cum daddy, cum in me” Your needy voice threw Bucky over the edge, his pace growing sloppy. His hands moved to wrap around your body, holding you as close to him as possible, the head of his cock desperate to release. 

“M’gonna get you pregnant baby-fuck get ready, gonna cum, gonna fucking CUM OH FUCKKK-” Bucky stilled, moaning into your neck, struggling to keep his voice low, as his cock spilled endless ropes of cum into you. He could feel each spurt make his cock jump, grinding his hips into you, pushing you against the mattress, making sure you got every single drop. 

“Take alll my cum sweets, take it” Bucky kept his cock in you, his hand snaking down to rub your clit. His eyes locked with yours, pupils blown with lust and love as you bit down on his shoulder, your orgasm crashing down on you. “Thats it, cum when you’re all nice and full of me baby” Bucky groaned feeling your walls pull and clench around his softening cock. “God that feels good” The both of you took a moment to catch your breath, cuddled under the sheets, with kisses in between. 

“So, we’ll have a little Bucky around for next Christmas?” Bucky smiled down at you, softly caressing your body while you laid on his chest. 

“Hmm, we just might”  You giggled, nodding, shifting up slightly so you could kiss him. You squealed as he grabbed you, rolling you over so you were under him again, his cock hardening almost instantly. 

“James!”

He bit his lip, thrusting into you again as your eyes rolled back, he was going to make sure you were pregnant by the end of the night. 

“I mean, our princess did ask for a sibling and she gets what she wants...”

Tags: @glxwingrxse  @hungryyeyess  @sebsgirl71479  @beabutterfly987  @teambarnes72  @witchywhore @jamesbuckybarneswify @slutforsexyseabass  @chrisdrysdale @littlemarvelmenfan  @buggy14  @whimsyplaty92  @sergntbarnes @inkedaztec   @pono-pura-vida   @moonlightreader649 @brooklynscherry-z  @elle14-blog1 @justsebstan @littlelightnings @psychomanniac-blog  @happyt0exist   @emmabarnes  @bethyruth @matchat3a  @cjand10   @getwellsoontana  @cherryschaos   @lokisasgardianvampirequeen  @ashenc-blog  @buckybarnessimpp   @potatothots  @goldylions  @high-functioning-lokipath @morganemorganite-blog  @kingfleury   @peaches1958   @spiderman-stilinski   @peaceinourtime82  @gublur   @wintersmelodie @geeky-politics-46   @lolawassad  @almosttoopizza   @a-poor-gryffindork @alternativeprincess   @buckycallsmeaslut    @kamaria-sweet-writes  @charmedbysarge    @xnorthstar3x  @kryoee7 @alina02  @gh0stgurl    @polishprincess999 @jessybarnes @alltheficsiwant @chemtrails-club  @eralen   @carrotfantasimp

[buckrecs]

hi! i am desperately searching for christmas bucky barnes fanfics because it does NOT feel like the holidays and i'm in need of some holiday spirit :) if you don't celebrate christmas though no worries at all, i don't want to be a bother!

Christmas

masterlist | req masterlist

In my country we don’t celebrate Christmas like America, so I’ve always wanted to do christmas activities. (I live in Korea) It was so much fun reading these holiday fics🎄✨

btw i’m visiting New York for the first time soon!! I hope some of the christmassy stuff is still there till February…

Secret Santa by @buckybarnesandmarvel

the team decides to do a secret santa... of course you get the one person you’re in love with

White Christmas by @writerlyhabits

The Holiday season catches Bucky by surprise, but after a less-than-ideal morning, a friendly invitation from his new neighbor is more tempting than he would have anticipated. 

Christmas Bucky by @softlybarnes

bucky realizes you aren't in your usual festive mood.

An Unusual Christmas by @petersshirts

You plan on flying home for Christmas but when the flight gets cancelled, you need to seek shelter at the one Avenger you can’t stand

Operation Mistletoe by @wkemeup

With dozens of mistletoe appearing in archways across the compound, you start to notice a pattern when you begin to encounter Bucky Barnes beneath each one

The Worst Time of the Year by @delaber (series)

According to Bucky, Christmas is the worst time of the year. He hates everything about it - well everything apart from one thing: you.

won’t ask for much this christmas by @bonky-n-steeb

You get stuck in Christmas lights and Bucky fucks you.

The Quest for Love by @sgtjbuccky (series)

Work has always been a priority for Bucky, leaving things like love long forgotten, and for him it’s no problem, but for Sam and Steve it is the biggest problem to grace this earth. Fed up with Bucky and his constants protest and avoidance of love, they set him up on a series of dates to find the girl of his dreams with the help of the magical spirit of December. Only for Bucky to realize that love isn’t always found where one goes looking for it, but may be close by.  

christmas eve by @buckybleu

It's the night before Christmas and an ex-assassin is up wrapping Christmas presents for his family.

Christmas Shenanigans by @buckybarnesstar

mega fluffy bucky x reader where they go Christmas shopping

12 Days of Christmas by @sweetbuckybarnes (series)

12 days running up to Christmas, Bucky and Y/N come closer together.

‘Tis the Season by @moonbeambucky

With Christmas around the corner not everyone is excited to celebrate. Will your surprise bring back Bucky’s spirit or turn him into a Grinch?

Little Christmas Gifts by @iwillbeinmynest

The Holliday Hack by @gogolucky13

You ask Bucky to be your stand-in boyfriend for your family’s Christmas party.

Not-So-Secret Santa by @navybrat817

Bucky wants to give you the perfect gift.

The Perfect Tree by @andreafmn

After all is said and done, Christmas is (Y/N)'s favorite time of the year. She is known for going all out, from decorations to food, from silly traditions to happy memories. But one thing can never go wrong. She needs the perfect Christmas tree.

Merry Fuckin’ Christmas by @rookthorne (series)

No one ever, ever, turned down the opportunity to celebrate and party through the festive season over the years, but with your help, the 107th Motorcycle Club was going to learn that tradition was just as important as a loaded gun.

All Wrapped Up by @jobean12-blog

Bucky likes you...he’s shy...but he finally has a way to show it with a special gift. 

Tis the damn season by @starrysebastians

On the first post-blip Thanksgiving, you find yourself having to reunite with your parents and your heart is not in it — Sam persuades you to take Bucky with you, and this might be an opportunity for you two to get to know each other.

Merry Christmas! <3

[levans44]

underneath the tree

pairing: steve rogers x agent!reader

summary: Everything is where it should be: a giant pot of mulled wine simmering quietly on the stove, colorful bags of icing and sugary sprinkles strewn all over the cookie decorating station. Even an old-timey record player crackles softly in the corner, one you’d thrifted on a whim in hopes of teasing a certain someone about it.

Except that certain someone wasn’t… here. 

warnings: fluff, mutual pining, friends to lovers, first kiss, light angst

word count: 2.7k

a/n: hey friends, this one’s a holiday special w/ pure fluff (and a pinch of angst b/c who am i without it?) feedback is always welcome! thanks for reading and happy holidays 🎄✨

“Santa’s… Favorite… Ho.” 

The words glitter in bold, obnoxious cursive, smack dab across the chest of your favorite red-haired assassin. 

“Good one, Romanoff.”  You smirk, biting back a laugh as she levels you with a deadpan stare, betrayed by the faint twitch at the corner of her crimson lips.  

Your very first time hosting a Christmas Party. 

Or, as Nat lovingly dubbed it—a ’Derelict’s Christmas.’ 

It’s a tradition you’re determined to start this year, for anyone on the team without family during the holidays—a way to make sure no one spends this time of year alone.

And, naturally, another opportunity to humiliate your coworkers. 

The rules were simple: everyone had to show up in the ugliest, most eye-searing sweater they could find. No exceptions.

And I mean ugly, Nat. A basic red sweater is not ugly. 

Even Bucky’s adhered to your law, donning a laid-back penguin wearing sunglasses, sprawled beneath the words ‘Chill Vibes Only.’ A festive tinsel garland spirals around his left arm, which will undoubtedly be the subject of jokes he won’t live down until well after New Years.

Wait, does this make you the Winter Wonderland Soldier?

As you glance around your living room, soft, warm light dances off the mismatched decorations adorning the walls—the kind you’d spent all week setting up—and you can’t help but feel a distinct melancholic warmth reserved for this time of the year.

Everything is where it should be: a giant pot of mulled wine simmering quietly on the stove, colorful bags of icing and sugary sprinkles strewn all over the cookie decorating station. Even an old-timey record player crackles softly in the corner, one you’d thrifted on a whim in hopes of teasing a certain someone about it.

Except that certain someone wasn’t… here. 

Your eyes flick to the door for what must be the tenth time in as many minutes.

No luck. 

You try to tell yourself it’s just traffic, that he’ll walk through any second. But the party flows on, cruelly indifferent—drinks flowing, laughter bubbling—Sam’s already made his second sappy toast of the night and is well on his way to a third. With each passing minute, the excitement in your chest grows heavy, twisting into disappointment.

Sure, he’s probably got a million other things to do. Even on Christmas. 

But when you’d brought up your little soiree, he’d agreed with a gentle nod of his head, and smiled in that boyish way that made your heart flutter.

Sounds fun, I’ll be there.  

It’s not like him to just leave you hanging. But when there’s no work emergency and everyone else is here, it’s hard not to take it personally. 

Your mind feels exhausted, steaming like a train running low on fuel, huffing its way to its final station, desperate to come up with more excuses. You’ve run out of them about two drinks ago.

You’re about to prepare your third, slumped against the kitchen island with a cutting board under you, when a quiet voice cuts through your haze.

“Not feelin’ the holiday spirit?”

You start at the interruption, the lime in your hand slipping from your fingers and tumbling away, rolling off the cutting board with a soft thump.

“Jesus, Barnes, give a girl a warning.”

You abandon your knife with a quiet sigh, eyes following the trail of red and green tinsel up Bucky’s arm as he steps in closer.

Lips twitching in something like amusement, he leans casually against the counter, gaze flicking pointedly toward your apartment entrance before drifting back to you.

“Noticed you’ve been staring at that door all night.”

The words hit you harder than you expect. You force a roll of your eyes, dismissing his observation with a shrug. But your fingers hesitate over the cutting board, the lime mocking you from its spot against the cool backsplash. 

“I’m not—” You cut yourself off, the words tasting too defensive.  

A heavier sigh slips from you when you reach for your glass instead.

“It’s just not like him, you know?” You mutter, swirling the last sip in your glass before downing it. Your lips come up sticky-sweet from the rim when you mumble, more to yourself than him.

“I mean, sure, he’s busy, but…” You trail off, meeting Bucky’s gaze to find that the teasing glint was gone, replaced with something softer, unreadable. The shift unsettles you, and your stomach twists.

“What?” The word comes out sharper than you intended.

He tilts his head, as if weighing his words, and the silence grows heavy—a non-answer wrapped in a knowing look. Brows furrowed, you wait, trying to decipher his hesitation. 

It’s another long beat before he sighs, lifting himself off the counter, and taps his fingers absently against the edge. 

His eyes dart to the side, glancing briefly over the room. “He… didn’t want me to tell anyone.” 

Your fingers tighten instinctively around the stem of your glass, teeth scraping over the remnants of sugar sticking to your bottom lip. 

“About what?”

He exhales sharply through his nose, rubbing the back of his neck. “Look, Steve’s…” His gaze flicks to yours, softening, “He’s probably over at New York-Presbyterian.”

Your stomach drops, fingers slipping around the glass as you reach for the countertop. The train jolts back to life, racing faster than ever, the wheels screeching as each thought barrels forward, colliding with the next in a blur of frantic speed.

The hospital?Why, was he hurt?What happened?How had you not heard?

“No, no, he’s not—” Bucky cuts in quickly, raising a hand to stave off your growing panic. The wince on his face softens into a small, apologetic laugh,

“He’s fine. Just…volunteering for the kids. Does it every year.”  

You blink, the rush of thoughts screeching to a sudden halt.

“He’s…”

It takes all of two seconds for the realization to register, your body moving before your mind can catch up. The glass is abandoned on the counter as you scramble for the nearest coat, not caring whose it is, and rush for the door.

The pediatric ward offers a welcome reprieve from the usual maze of sterile corridors—paper snowflakes and crayon drawings adorning the walls, giant inflatable snowmen standing guard at the entrances to patient rooms. A small Christmas tree, twinkling with homemade ornaments and tinsel, stands next to the nurse’s station. 

Your desperate steps falter when you spot him in the corner of the ward, sat cross-legged over a rug in a makeshift play area, surrounded by a small circle of children. The Captain America outfit stands out amongst the sterile blues and whites—and it’s not the usual tactical gear he wears on covert missions, muted tones and coarse to the touch. 

No, its the spandex version of his uniform, that ridiculously colorful suit he’d worn to punch Hitler on stage every night. Soft patches of red, white, and blue that fit snugly around his shoulders, but hang a little loose over the rest of his frame.

He’s reading from a tiny children’s book, splayed open in one hand, while the other steadies a little boy in a hospital gown perched on top of his shoulders. The boy’s eyes are wide, glued to the page as Steve gently rocks him side to side.

You hesitate, pulse quickening, letting his soft, steady voice wash over you for a moment—a rhythmic murmur that envelops the quiet corner of the ward. 

It’s not until he finishes the book that he realizes you’re standing there.

Soft blue eyes crinkle at the edges when he frowns, starting to uncross his legs.

"Hey, uh… guys, new mission,” He’s still a little unsure when he sets the book down, gaze still on you. “…whoever can help me clean up the blocks gets to pick the next game, okay?” He clears his throat, smiling back at the eager group as they scramble off to the toy bins in the corner. He gently lowers the boy from his shoulders, letting the little one rush off to join the others. 

You move forward, feet shuffling against the soft foam padding of the floor. As Steve meets you halfway, you clutch the sleeves of your sweater tightly, heart hammering.

“Hi.” He breathes out, surprise still evident in the small dip between his brows, though it gives way to a gentle smile. 

“Hey.” Your words come out choked, something unmistakably tightening in your chest. 

“How did you…” His eyes flit down to the loud pattern on your sweater, then behind you at the clock. His gaze lingers there for a moment, eyes fluttering shut in disbelief. 

“Shoot. I’m sorry, I had no idea it got this late. I was going to—”

“—Steve.” Your voice cracks, thick and watery—frustration, sadness, guilt, longing, all tangled with a deep, aching incredulity. 

And goddamn it, why was the tip of your nose prickling?

You take another step toward him, now close enough to notice the tiny details of his uniform—the delicate lines of stitching, the faded patch of white over his chest. And as your eyes trail over the frayed seams, you can’t help but lift a hand, the tip of your index tracing a gentle line against the end of a loose thread, pressing it down and watching it pop back up. It’s all you can do to keep from collapsing into his arms, or punching him square in the chest. 

“It’s been sitting in my closet too long,” he murmurs, the low timbre vibrating against your palm, “Figured I’d take it out for a spin.”

Your eyes snap up, and the air that escapes your nose is somewhere between a snort and a desperate cry because you know you’re fucked. 

Utterly ruined by this ridiculous, stupid, dumb man standing in front of you. 

And when he tucks his bottom lip under his teeth, trapping the soft pink flesh in quiet hesitation, the spring finally snaps. 

Brows furrowed, he's halfway into offering some kind of reassurance��maybe another damn apology—when you rise on your tiptoes, yanking him down by the loose collar of his uniform.

And then it’s nothing but the heady sensation of his lips flush against yours, a little stiff but warm and alive just the same. His broad hands find their way to the small of your back, the pressure against your lips growing firmer as he bends down, pulling you in closer. You’re gripping his uniform so tight your knuckles have turned white, but you refuse to let go even when he pulls back, his breath warm and steady against your skin. 

His gaze is soft, searching, and you become acutely aware of the hot sting rising behind your eyes, the bruising grip on his collar the only thing holding you together. You wonder if he feels it too, the weight of so much time lost and longing unspoken, rushing to fill the space between you. 

Then he smiles—a quiet, unguarded thing that tugs at the corners of his lips and lights up his eyes.

And just like that, the weight in your chest slips away as if it was never there.

His gaze flits down to your lips, eyelids fluttering tenderly as he starts to lean back in, only to be stopped short by a ripple of delighted gasps from about three feet below.

“Look, look, they’re kissing!”  

“Steve is that your girrrlfriend?"

A gaggle of children ambushes you two—a surprise strike from all sides with no escape route. Squeals of joy pierce the air as tiny hands grasp at Steve’s uniform, tugging at his sleeves, pulling at his boot. It's a full-on siege, and you’re caught squarely in the middle. Steve looks back at you, brows raised in defeat.

“Oh my god, she’s toootally his girlfriend!”

“Cap-tain America sitting on a tree,” A loud chorus of singing erupts. “K-I-S-S-I-N—“

“Okay, okay, guys–“ He’s got the biggest, dumbest grin on his face when he raises a hand to try and quiet the noise, the other still resting on your waist. 

He’s blushing something fierce, redder than a Christmas stocking, and hell, if your cheeks aren’t warming up too. 

The nurse on duty eventually settles down the noise, gently ushering the children out of the play area and leading them to their rooms. You watch warily as the kids shuffle out, stuffed animals raised in the air as they wave goodbye.

“I-I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt…”

“No, we should’ve wrapped up a while ago.” Steve smiles sheepishly, his cheeks flushed as he ruffles the back of his neck. “It’s late.”

“Right.”

Silence stretches between you, deafeningly loud without all the tiny agents crowding your space. 

He steps forward, hand still curled around his nape, and you resist the urge to kiss him again. 

“Do you… wanna grab some hot chocolate?”

You sit idly in the waiting area, observing the ease on Steve’s face as he chats with the nursing staff, thanking them before heading back toward you with two plastic cups in hand.

The seat beside you creaks under his weight, and you go to cradle the warmth in both hands with a quiet smile. Your eyes drift over to the lights wrapped around the Christmas tree near the nurse’s station, shining brightly—and with it, the familiar knot tightening in your chest.

“Every year, huh?”

“Yeah,” He nods in your periphery, “The kids seem to like it.”

Your lips quirk up in a sideways smile, “Yeah, I bet.”

A beat, then: “Did Bucky tell you?”

You nod, and his smile widens, his gaze dropping to the floor as his leg bounces ever so slightly. The shiny red of his boots gleams against the linoleum, as he taps once, twice.

“I’m sorry I missed the party.” 

You track the rhythm of the tree lights as they blink—on, off, alternating between bulbs then flashing all at once—and he’s still apologizing. 

“I was looking forward to going.”

“Steve, it’s…” you sigh, brows furrowing at the absurdity of his apology, only for a new ridiculous thought to take its place. You blink, then, nose crinkling in amusement as you swivel around in your seat. 

“Wait, were you, planning on showing up in that?”

He laughs, the sound breaking out so warm and easy. “That bad, huh?”

You gaze incredulously for a long, deliberate beat.

“You know what? I’m actually glad you didn’t come tonight. I mean, for your sake.”

Quiet laughter bubbles up in your chest, a smile tugging at your lips as you turn your gaze back forward. But in the silence that follows, a thread of bitterness winds its way back through your thoughts.

"You know," you murmur, eyes drifting to the neatly stacked parcels beneath the tree, "you’re always helping out, doing things for everyone else." A warm, fuzzy feeling hums low in your stomach—though you're not entirely sure if it’s from all the cocktails you’ve had tonight.

You sigh, your head lolling onto one shoulder as you turn to meet his gaze. 

“…does Santa ever get anything for Captain America?”

He blinks, a quiet tilt of his head followed by a slow, knowing smile.

“Well,” the chair creaks again when he leans back, stretching out his legs with a satisfied breath. “He did this year.” 

At the puzzled furrow of your brow, he shrugs, eyes dropping down to the narrow strip of linoleum between you two.

Then, a gentle tap of his ridiculous, shiny boot against your foot.

When your gaze snaps back to his, he’s wearing that same boyish grin again, wide and stupid and far too charming for its own good.

You can’t decide if it makes you want to shove him, or punch him, or kiss him—or maybe do all three just to get it out of your system—because yeah, you’re completely done for.

Utterly ruined in ways you never saw coming, and it’s all his fault.

And if he leans in for another kiss, and you let him pull you in with a shaky breath and a smile that feels like surrender—

Well, that’ll have to be between you, him, and the giant inflatable snowman keeping guard just two feet away. 

(It’s not until you’ve both finished your hot chocolate, and shared just as many kisses as laughs, that you glance down at your phone to notice Sam’s text: 

bird boy 1 hour ago

yo di u take my fcking coat??)

[oneofstarkskids]

inspiration

bucky barnes x reader

genre: fluff

summary: it's that time of year!! but what exactly does one get their 107 year old super soldier boyfriend?

bucky bought his presents early, as any responsible adult does during this festive season.

you on the other hand, had no clue what to get him for christmas. it wasn't like you hadn't asked, but the only answer you ever got was, "i have everything I need right here, doll," followed by a sweet kiss.

it was almost infuriating.

so...here you were, scouring the apartment for the boxes your well trained assassin boyfriend hid.

you looked in the most precarious places and finally, sprawled out on the floor with clutter around you, gave up.

that's when you heard the front door click and quickly started tossing things back in the closet. but it was too late. bucky caught you red handed, "doll?"

the look on his face was one of concern and confusion. you looked completely disheveled, almost neurotic. but the way you chewed your bottom lip guiltily made something click in his brain.

"you don't happen to be sneakily searching for your christmas presents...do you?" he asked with a smirk.

you shook your head adamantly, but when he gave you that look you eventually caved.

"okay fine. i didn't know what to get you! and you never give me an actual answer so I wanted to know what you got me and see if it would give me some inspiration," you admitted with a groan.

he laughed and knelt down next to you before wrapping you in his arms.

you were humiliated by the idea of getting caught for such a childish scheme. but bucky was a gentleman nonetheless.

"doll, I will love whatever you get me. not because of what it is, but because of who you are."

with those words, you finally knew exactly what to get him for christmas.

[deepdisireslonging]

Just a Phone Call Away

Bucky is away on a mission. He tries to cover the distance with a spicy phone call, but the Reader can’t get into it because she misses him too much. He goes the extra mile to making her night special.

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x Reader

Warnings/Promises: dirty talk, phone sex, Angst, Smut, oral (female receiving), creampie, cock-warming, Fluff

Word Count: 2800+

Note: Oops. This was supposed to be a ficlet. Welp… can’t argue with a big smutty present, can I? Please comment and reblog to share with your blog friends if you like the fic! Happy Holidays, and happy reading!

“How does the house look?”

As your eyes drifted over the brightly colored lights and tinsel around your living room, you had to smile. “It looks great. I added some electric candles across the mantle.”

On the phone, Bucky laughed. “Our fake mantle for our fake fireplace?”

“Hey. It makes heat and it’s got at least a flickering image of a fire. And it won’t burn down the house.”

“Unless Tony’s wires short out.”

“Don’t jinx us.”

It had been a gift from Stark Enterprises after most of New York lost power last winter. Thousands of them were produced before the end of January and just about every home in the city had one. Each “fireplace” was technically a self-conducting generator that worked not just the “fire,” but also had outlets in the back for other appliances. He’d gifted you two one of the beta models. It worked most of the time.

You liked it. So much so, that you’d risked Tony’s wrath to raid his shop for a wooden beam to hang over the contraption as a mantle. It made your otherwise pitiful living room feel homey. And now that the winter holidays were in full swing, you went all out with decorating the space. The rest of the house was still a decoration wasteland. But the other rooms could wait for Bucky to get home from this mission. You stretched out on the blanket rolled out in front of the fireplace with a sigh.

The mission.

Apparently, sleeper agents didn’t take a holiday break. Steve accidentally uncovered a cluster of operatives in the last mission, and he made a plan to take them out. They left before Thanksgiving. Christmas was only a few weeks away and every call to Bucky suggested they wouldn’t be back till the New Year.

“What was the sigh for?”

Another one heaved through your chest. “Nothing. Just… missing you.”

“I know, Baby. We’re trying to wrap things up, but… you know how it is.”

“Yeah.”

The phone crackled like it did when he went through a tunnel.

“Huh? What was that?”

“Would you like to try something? I can’t be there right now, and I hate that. But I want to make sure you’re warm and taken care of.”

You sat up on your elbows. “Steve’s not with you in the car, right? Please tell me you’re not going to try and embarrass him again?” Your cheeks warmed thinking about that time Bucky sweet talked you to orgasm before you realized he wasn’t alone on the phone call. Steve couldn’t look you in the eye for a week. The memory also made you giggle. “Acts like that could get you on the Naughty list.”

“When have I ever been worried about that?” He chuckled. “No. It’s just me. Is the fire warm?”

Stretching, you laid the phone down and put it on speaker. “Mhmm.”

“You wearing your panda pj’s or… something else?”

A smile slid across your face as you played into his game. “No. Just a tank top and some of your sweatpants.” You side-eyed the phone. The same way you would shoot him a glance when you teased. “And that’s it. The fire’s warm enough I don’t need… all those layers.” You were rewarded with a groan. Trying to return the favor, you hummed as you dragged your hands up and around your body, imagining his hands and their favorite paths. “If anything, if I turn it up a notch, I won’t need anything after a few minutes.”

“You won’t need to do a thing here in a minute. Run your hands under your top for me? How does it feel?”

You slid your hands over your front over the fabric first. Already your nipples were peaked and tweakable through your tank top. Giving your breasts a squeeze made you hiss out a breath. Finally, you ran your hands up under your top. Your nerves sparkled with the promises of what was to come. Your whimpers made Bucky growl as you massaged your breasts. Behind the sound of him, the growl of his vehicle revved up. “Keep your eyes on the road, Sergeant.”

“My eyes are on the road, and my hands on the wheel. But, Baby Girl, whatever you’re doin’… keep doing it and making those sounds. Can you imagine how hard I am for you already? I wanna be there. With you sitting on top of me, grindin’ those hips into what’s waiting for you.”

Your hips bucked into the air, wishing you could do just that. “I wanna be where you are. Making you pull over so I can ride you in your seat. Making those blacked-out windows steam up with what I want to do to you.” Breathing heavily, you dipped a hand under the waistband of the sweatpants you stole from his dresser. Your nails trailed up and down your thigh, drifting closer and closer to where your desire was growing.

“Keep those hands on your breasts, Baby Girl. I know you. Be good for me? We’ll get there, I promise. But let me work you up a bit more.”

With a whine, you did as he said. But the more you kneaded, the colder you felt. “Buck-“

“The second I get home from this mission, I’m going to bring you to the brink only squeezing and sucking on those gorgeous breasts of yours. I’m going to kiss you head to core and back again. Can’t wait to taste you again, Baby.”

But your hands had stopped. One was pressed over your mouth to muffle your sobs. You slapped the other over the first as you sniffled.

“Can’t wait to… Baby? Hey… are you okay? What’s wrong?”

You used the hem of your tank to wipe your eyes. A sob burst through your lips. “I’m sorry. I… I just want you here, Buck. It feels selfish and I know you have to be out there doing what you need to…” You let the tears fall freely as you curled to one side. “But I want you home. I want you safe. Here. With me. I want you in my arms. Not on the phone miles away in the middle of who knows what. I like hearing your voice, really. But… it’s not real. You’re not here. And all I feel is cold. My imagination isn’t strong enough. Not anymore. I’m sorry. I’m so sorry.”

The vehicle revved again in the Bucky’s silence. You could almost see him. How his brow would crease as he frowned, trying to come up with the right words. “You don’t need to be sorry. I miss you too, and I don’t want to be away from you either. I- ah, fuck, Baby. I’m sorry. I’ll be home in a little while and then we don’t have to go anywhere or do anything.”

It took all your willpower not to scoff. “A Bucky ‘while’ or a Steve ‘while’?” You bit your bottom lip, waiting. He didn’t have an answer for that. Outside, the wind rattled your front door. “Bucky, I know you probably have to go back to work in a minute. But we- we can’t hang up like this. Please. Say something.”

Your phone screen went dark as the call ended. “Buck?” It stayed dark. You thought he must have driven into the dark zone Tony set up around wherever they had basecamp. No calls in or out. A sob ripped through your body. Then you startled as the door rattled again.

It swung open and your heart stopped.

“Bucky.”

He barely had time to shut and lock the door before you were on him. He wrapped his arms around you; the chill of his clothes prickled your skin with goosebumps. You didn’t care. He hummed an apology as you kissed all over his face and cried into his coat.

“You’re home?”

“Yes. I thought – it was going to be a surprise. We got ‘em. Been on the way home for two days trying to get back. I should have just told you. If I had known you felt so lonely I never… I’m home. I’m here.” He kissed you back, holding you close. He grunted as you squeezed him tighter. “I’m home. I’m here.” He kept humming it as you pulled him to kneel with you in front of the fire. Soon his cheeks were warm under your lips. “I should have told you. Am I on your naughty list?”

Breathless, you broke away with a laugh. “No. You don’t have to be.”

“Oh?”

“I thought you were going to kiss me from head to core and back again the second you got home?”

He grinned. “I did say that, didn’t I?”

“Mhmm.”

His grin glowed with the kind of danger that you yearned for. “Then I guess I better get started.” Sliding one arm around your waist, and his other hand digging into your hair, he held you in place for his deep kiss. Try as you might, you couldn’t move with him holding you so tightly. You couldn’t even thrust your hips into his front. Bucky chuckled darkly as you struggled. “What?” He ran his thumb across your bottom lip as you tried to catch your breath. “I thought this is what you wanted.”

“It is, Buck, please-“

He covered up your pleas with a flurry of kisses. This time around, he kept his hands on your waist, holding you mostly in place. With your arms free, you could cup his face in your hands. His cheeks were scruffy with mission-growth. Already you could feel the burn between your thighs. He grunted as you reached between your bodies. The tent of his tactical pants was warm under your touch. Breath stuttering, he thrust towards your hand. You took the chance to mouth over his Adam’s apple, making him moan. Leaning forward, you almost succeeded in taking him down to the blanket; but at the last moment he threaded his fingers into your hair and tugged you back.

“Nuh-uh. Been laying on a hard cot for weeks. Can’t I lay on something soft?”

You bit your bottom lip. “Of course. But-“ You tugged on the buttons on his coat.

It took both of you to make it through all the buttons and zippers and clasps of his coat and under-jacket before you reached his shirt. He tugged off the long-sleeve shirt, leaving on his black tank top. He jutted out his chin. You grabbed the hem of your top and pulled it off over your head. The giggle that bubbled out of you rivaled any that you had made on a Christmas morning. Bucky’s face of desire and appreciation of your form, paired with his lax jaw and glassy eyes… it warmed you all over. Reaching out, you snagged his wrists and guided his hands to your breasts.

Mumbling to himself, he massaged your breasts. He leaned forward to bury his face between them. You curled your fingers into his hair, giving his locks gentle tugs to make him hum against your chest. It wasn’t long before he was guiding you to lay across the blanket. His lips barely left your body. When they did, it was so he could shift his ministrations from one breast to the other or up to the underside of your jaw. He could have danced you around like a marionette for all you cared. Your vision was hazy with need and your hands couldn’t feel enough of him. He growled as your touch found his trapped manhood again.

“Gotta wait, Baby.” He sucked on the spot under your ear. “If you get your hands on me too soon, I’ll blow. Wanna taste you first.”

“Have you been starving for me, Sergeant?”

His moan into your shoulder was plenty of an answer.

As promised, he kissed his way down your body. Gently, he removed the sweats. You giggled again. He couldn’t stop looking between your glistening arousal and your eyes. Quick and desperate, he kissed back up to your lips. Then he settled on his stomach. His arms wrapped around your thighs. You did your best to settle in.

Not that it did you any good. He lapped and sucked at your slick like he hadn’t eaten in days. To a degree, he hadn’t eaten from you in weeks. But the way he devoured your sex was like he hadn’t eaten anything since he left. When he curled his metal fingers into your heat, you arched with a cry. His flesh arm stretched across your tummy, pinning you down so he could continue to take you apart. Desperate and mildly warmed up from the earlier phone call, you fell apart quickly. He laughed into your thighs about how easy you came for him.

“Missed me that much, Baby? Can’t help but feel flattered.” He watched you, resting his cheek on your thigh while his fingers continued to lazily curl within you. Every time you almost managed a comment, he curled into that spot that made your eyes cross and you lost your train of thought. “Can you give me another? Come on. Just one more and then we can rest.”

You whined. “Not… not without you.”

“But you’ve got me. I’m right here.”

“Buck-“ you moaned. “Need you. In me. Please.”

The flickering of the fireplace mirrored in his eyes as he crawled over you. But his fingers continued their slow strokes. If it looked like you were going to speak, he flicked his thumb across your clit and scattered your thoughts again. When he was finally hovered over you, he made a show of slowly dragging his fingers out of your slick before sucking them into his mouth. The way his tongue curled around the metal, not missing a drop, made your vision fuzzy with the memory of that tongue on your sex. He dragged his cock into the open, slowly pumping it.

“Gonna- fuck. Gonna have to be careful.” He reached down again, returning his fingers to stroking your velvety walls. His hips thrust, dragging his cock through the slick that escaped around his ministrations. “Need you close, Baby. What do you need?” He mouthed over your breast.

He might as well have asked you to compute the number of Christmas lights in Manhattan. The best you could do was grip the side of his head and guide him from one breast to the other. Your hips jolted when you needed more. Bucky’s fingers curled and scissored like you needed. He added another, stretching you pleasantly. Soon, you were keening.

“About to cum, Buck. Please. Need you. Come on.”

You screamed as he filled you in a breath. His whine of finally feeling you around his cock muffled into your shoulder. But his chest pressed hot and sweaty against yours. At first, he could only tremble, scared to move. But you rolled your hips. The pleasure coursing through you was ready to tumble over the edge, if only he’d move.

“Darling, please-“

Bucky thrust once. Then quickly pistoned his hips into yours like a man possessed.

You trembled and raked your nails down his back. Despite the fabric in the way, he growled all the same. His mouth fell open, pressing a breathless kiss to your forehead.

With a hoarse shout, you clamped down on his cock. The lights on your tree blurred into one bright glow. Bucky’s grip tightened around you, sure to leave bruises. His eyes fluttered closed as he came. Spilling into you, he trembled and rocked his hips a few more times, chasing the feel of you and the height of his pleasure.

“Welcome home, darling,” you shivered.

He breathed a laugh into your neck. But he didn’t leave. Instead he rolled to one side so your back was towards the fireplace. “Maybe- maybe I should leave a bit more often.” Your whine made him smile. He smoothed his hands across your hip and back. “You know. Just to the grocery and such. If I walk out and back in again, you wanna welcome me like this again?”

“Hmm.” You nuzzled your face into his chest. “If you wanted to do that, you’d have to let me go. And step back out into the cold.”

“Nuh-uh.”

“What? The Winter Soldier not a fan of the cold?”

“Not when I’ve got you in my arms and speared on my cock I’m not. I’m not moving from this spot until absolutely necessary.” He kissed your forehead. “And I meant what I said earlier. I don’t have to be anywhere. Told Steve not to call me till mid-January unless the whole world’s in danger.” He hissed as your nose pressed, cold, along the neckline of his tank.

“So you’re all mine for Christmas?”

“Christmas. New Year’s. Epiphany. Boxing Day-“ You cut him off with a laugh and another flurry of kisses. Behind you, the fire crackled warm, and your brightly-colored living room finally felt like home.

***

Master List

Other Bucky Fics:

A Gift to Me (F, S, Christmas) 

Starting off the Year Right (S) 

Cake or Cookies (S)

[gremlin-girly]

Spare Parts

So I had my first ask the other day from @cookieshakr (and idk how the ask got deleted im sorry). But since I wrote so much of the ask, it would be a shame not to post it. So dearest ask, thank you for being my first ask and I hope this did your ask justice!

"So idk if you've seen the Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special, but i crack up at the scene of Rocket getting Bucky’s arm as a gift. Can you do like a Bucky x reader of maybe their POV of how his arm got taken and box up all pretty; like they're relaxing at home and reader hears a knock at the door just to see Nebula there and just some kinda fluff and chaos."

Tags/Warnings: FLUFF, just wholesome wholesome times, Christmas gifts, and a lil hint of angst from Bucky (bc well it's him), established relationship, petnames (baby, doll, sweetheart)

Not beta'd. I do not give permission for my work to be translated, reposted, copied or put through an AI machine.

Pairing: Bucky x f!reader (for the one use of "doll" and one of "ma'am")

Summary: When an unexpected guest arrives at you and Bucky's apartment, it sparks a Christmas gift no one was expecting.

Word count: ??? On mobile sorryyyy

Masterlist | Flufftcember 2024 | The Bucky Barnes Collection

When you heard the knock at your door late one December evening, you didn’t expect to see Nebula stood awkwardly in your hallway looking at her feet.

“Uh hey, Nebula.” You stand aside to let her in. “What’s up? You okay?”

Nebula doesn't move from the hallway. “I need Bucky’s arm.”

“You what?” Your baffled expression meets her sheepish one, like she doesn't quite want to take your boyfriend's arm.

"Sweetheart?" Bucky calls from the couch, the annoyance at your disappearance from his side coming through only slightly. "Who is it?"

"Nebula." You call back and then add, just as awkwardly as Nebula had, "She needs your arm?"

“You can’t have my arm.” Bucky pipes up from the couch, looking over at her with a frown. He’d already paused the movie you’d both been watching before Nebula’s interruption but his growing irritation at being disturbed was already beginning to show.

"I have Rocket as my secret santa." Nebula pleads. "Your arm is the perfect gift!"

“You should come in.” You sigh.

“Doll, you can’t be serious.” Bucky huffs. “It’s my arm.”

“Rocket would take good care of it.” Nebula counters, crossing the threshold.

You hold up your hands silencing them both.

“I have a better idea.” You pad to the spare room and after a few minutes of rustling and cursing, you re-appear with a box in hand, both Nebula and Bucky staring at you.

“Shuri gave it to me. It’s a spare.” You shrug, opening the lid to reveal a beautifully preserved metal left arm. The arm in the box sparkles with that new arm shine that was absent from Bucky’s current arm.

“A spare?” Bucky asks horrified. “What did she think I’d do? Put this one down and lose it?”

"Kinda." You offer Bucky a sympathetic look when he frowns at you. "Plus I'm sick of it taking up space in the closet. Not to mention the awkwardness of explaining it to my mom when she visited."

Nebula’s black eyes are like saucers as she stares down at the arm. Bucky and you share a look; an unspoken agreement to help out your friend, and to put a smile on the chaotic raccoon's face at Christmas.

“What do you think?”

“You... You’d give this to me? For Rocket?” She looks over at Bucky with a heart-meltingly sweet look and he sighs in defeat.

“Yeah. I don’t need it.” He waves his left arm at her. “Besides, this is a win-win. Let him think you beat me for it too.”

“Why?”

“Because it makes it look like you beat up and assassin just to get him the perfect gift.” Bucky chuckles.

"Thank you." Nebula says sincerely with a big, bright smile.

You're clutching the top of the dining chair with a white knuckle grip, trying to keep yourself from melting into a puddle at the scene before you. Nebula takes the box from you, angling it awkwardly in her arms.

"You're not taking it like that are you?" You gape at her and Nebuka blinks, looking between you and Bucky in confusion.

"Why? What's wrong with it?"

"You need to wrap it." You grin excitedly at her. "Stay right there. I have some paper and ribbon. Bucky get the scissors and tape."

"Yes ma'am." Bucky salutes you mockingly and heads to the miscellaneous kitchen drawer filled to the brim with odds and ends and random batteries.

Handing you the tape and scissors upon your return, he watches with mild amusement as you demonstrate to Nebula how to wrap the box; letting her choose the paper and the bow (which happened to be the biggest you had).

Once Rocket's arm was perfectly wrapped, Nebula gave you an awkward hug and thanked you before turning to Bucky.

The assassins gave eachother a wordless nod of respect, and Nebula and extra quiet thank you before heading back to the ship.

“That was... nice.” You say, folding your arms after the door closes. “I feel like Rocket will appreciate having his own arm.”

Bucky’s arms slide around your waist. “Do you know how weird it is gifting your own arm?”

“It was a spare.” You say playfully, leaning you head onto his shoulder.

“Your own spare arm?” Bucky corrects with a chuckle. “I don’t know. It was sweet. Reminded me of Becca, actually.”

You sag a little in Bucky’s grip and pat his flesh hand gently at his confession, giving him a peck to the cheek. “Oh, sweetheart...”

“No, no. In a good way, not a sad way. Promise.”

You hum softly not quite believing him but dropping the subject in favour of more kisses.

“Well, in the spirit of Christmas, I say we go and finish our movie.”

"Finally." He huffs, picking you up and walking back to the sofa with you in his arms.

[avengerscompound]

Steve Rogers & Rebecca Proctor (nee Barnes) Marvel Holiday Special (1991) #1

[artgroves]

For the wonderful Graphology by @leveragehunters!

[societyfolklore]

White Wine In The Sun

Title: White Wine In The Sun (Prompt- let's go somewhere warm for the winter)   Pairing: Bucky Barnes x Female Reader Summary:  It’s been years since Bucky has truly celebrated Christmas, but this year, he finds himself reluctantly agreeing to spend the holidays with you at your childhood home—a sunny, warm retreat in Australia.

Word Count: 2k

Warnings:  Romance, Little Angsty and Fluff, Kissing A/N: Another entry for @the-slumberparty December daze challenge- Day 16) As an Australian Christmas is a different experience for us.. Also it’s 40+/104 degrees here today LOL taking inspo from White Wine In The Sun by Tim Minchin

The sound of jet engines roared in the background as Bucky adjusted his duffle bag over his shoulder, glancing down at the boarding pass in his hand. A flight to Melbourne, Australia, was far from how he imagined spending his Christmas. He looked over at you, the excitement on your face unmistakable as you juggled your carry-on and passport.

"You sure you want to drag me along for this?" he muttered, his tone low but tinged with humour.

You smiled at him, nudging his arm. "I'm not dragging you. You're coming willingly. Mostly."

He huffed, shaking his head but allowing you to guide him toward the gate. "Just remember, this was your idea," he said, though there was no bite to his words.

As you boarded the plane and found your seats, Bucky couldn't help but feel a sense of trepidation. He had never been one for big family gatherings, and the thought of spending Christmas with your family in a small country town made him a little anxious. But as he looked over at you, he saw the excitement in your eyes and knew he couldn't say no.

The flight was long, but eventually, you arrived in Melbourne and made your way to the rural property where you grew up. The drive long from the capital, though Bucky could practically watch you vibrate in the driver's seat next to him, the aircon already blasting in the car. You regaled him with stories of Christmases past in in the country. “Down here, Christmas is typically BBQ, white wine, beers and prawns.” You did wonder if Bucky would miss snow and roaring fires. He listened quietly, his lips quirking into small smiles when you told him about your dad’s chaotic attempts to make pavlova and your siblings’ insistence on Christmas karaoke when everyone got too drunk or had to much sugar.

“It’s… different,” Bucky said cautiously as he looked out car window, watching the paddocks of dry grass and gumtrees past by.

“You’ll love it,” you assured him, squeezing his hand. “It might not be snowy and cold, but it’s still magical. And I want you to experience it with me.” The house was a beautiful, some old farm house with a wrap-around veranda and large trees surrounding it. Dogs running around the gardens by the house as the car pulled up the long drive. As you stepped out of the car, Bucky followed getting hit in the face by the stifling heat that seemed to not affect you at all as he took in the sights and sounds of the property. You led him to the front door, Bucky looked uncomfortable in the heat already.  Your parents came bustling out to greet you, their enthusiasm immediately overwhelming Bucky, though he managed a polite smile as they pulled you into hugs.

“And this must be Bucky,” your mom said warmly, extending a hand. “We’ve heard so much about you.”

Bucky’s lips twitched into a faint smile. “Thank you for having me,” he said, his voice quiet but genuine.

Your dad clapped him on the back, nearly making him stumble. “Come on in! Bet you’re starving after that flight.” “Your fathers even put the aircon on.” “Oh it is a special occasion!” You chime trying not to laugh as you both got ushed inside into the cool. “Thought your poor boy might melt on us if I didn’t.” You hoped Bucky had been around you long enough to understand ‘Australian’ humour or this might be a long few days for him.

Thankfully  Bucky adjusted to the unorthodox holiday traditions your family embraced. He helped your dad man the BBQ as more family descended on the house, earning approving nods for his efficient handling of the steaks. Your sister arrival  with her small family resulted in your shrieking like someone had doused you in ice water, Bucky had barely enough time to register what was going on before you took off sprinting across the lawn almost taking her to the ground in a hug  while her husband carried their new infant daughter from the car. “ABBY!” Abby squealed in delight, squeezing you just as tightly as you embraced her, both of you laughing like kids again. “Oh my God, look at you! You’re glowing!” you exclaimed, pulling back to hold her at arm’s length. “And her! Let me see her!”

Her husband chuckled, carefully shifting the tiny bundle in his arms toward you. “Meet baby Lucy,” he said proudly.

Your heart melted instantly as you reached for the baby, cradling her with practiced ease. “Oh, Abby, she’s perfect,” you breathed, your eyes misting as you took in the soft, delicate features of your new niece. Lucy yawned, her tiny face scrunching up before settling into a peaceful expression, and you swore your heart grew three sizes.

“Bucky!” you called over your shoulder, your excitement brimming over. “Come ‘ere! You ‘ave to meet her!”

Bucky, who had just finished placing a perfectly grilled steak onto a serving tray for your dad, looked up from the BBQ. He hesitated for only a moment, his brows knitting together in a mix of curiosity and cautiousness, before making his way over.

“This is Bucky,” you introduced as he approached, your smile wide as you gestured to him with one hand while still holding Lucy in the other. “And Bucky, this is my sister Abby, her husband Jake, and the newest addition to the family—baby Lucy.”

Abby gave Bucky a once-over, her expression swiftly turning approving. “So ‘is is the famous Bucky,” she said, her voice teasing. “I’ve heard a lot about you.”

Bucky glanced at you, a faint blush creeping up his neck. “All good things, I hope.”

“Mostly,” Abby teased with a smirk before extending her hand. “Welcome to the chaos. If you survived the BBQ, you’re halfway there.”

Bucky shook her hand, his grin softening. “Thanks. And congrats, by the way. She’s beautiful.”

“Want to ‘old her?” Jake asked suddenly, catching everyone off guard. He stepped closer, offering the baby to Bucky.

“Oh, uh…” Bucky’s eyes widened slightly, and he instinctively stepped back. “I’m not sure that’s a good idea.”

“You’ll be fine mate,” Jake assured him with a friendly smile. “She’s lighter than a ‘ag of flour. ‘ust support her head, and you’re golden.”

“Go on,” you encouraged gently, your voice filled with warmth. “She wont bite—yet.”

Reluctantly, Bucky nodded, his expression a mix of uncertainty and determination. Jake carefully handed Lucy over, and Bucky held her with the same precision and care he might handle a priceless artifact. His metal hand rested firmly under her body, supporting her weight as his flesh hand cradled her head.

For a moment, everything seemed to pause. Lucy stirred slightly, her tiny fist waving in the air before she settled again, and Bucky let out a breath he didn’t realize he was holding.

“She likes you,” Abby said softly, her teasing replaced with genuine warmth.

Bucky’s lips curved into a small, almost shy smile as he looked down at the baby in his arms. “She’s... so small,” he murmured, his voice full of wonder.

Your heart swelled at the sight. You hadn’t expected this, but seeing Bucky—calm, tender, and utterly captivated by your niece—was enough to make your chest ache with affection. You exchanged a quiet glance with Abby, her knowing smile mirroring your own.

“Well,” Jake said with a grin, “looks like Uncle Buck a natural.”

Bucky’s gaze flicked up, meeting yours with a hint of surprise at the title, but you just smiled softly, nodding in agreement. “Yeah,” you said. “He really is.”

Your younger cousins dragged him into a backyard cricket game, where he quickly became the star player despite his initial protests. Watching him laugh as the kids cheered his every move made your heart swell as you sat with your infant niece asleep on your shoulder.

As Christmas day turned into Christmas night and the endless buffet of festive eating turned into casual grazing under twinkling string lights, you found Bucky sitting on the back veranda staring out at the horizon where the sun dipped below the trees. You joined him, handing him a cold drink. You could see a mob of roos bouncing their way across the far paddock.

“It’s different, huh?” you asked, sitting beside him.

He nodded, his gaze distant. “Yeah. Different… but nice.” He glanced at you, a soft smile tugging at his lips. “Your family’s great.”

“They love you already,” you said, leaning your shoulder against his. “And I love seeing you like this—relaxed, happy.”

Bucky’s smile faded slightly, his brow furrowing. “It’s not something I’m used to,” he admitted. “Being around so much… joy. It’s good, though. I’m trying.”

You reached over, taking his hand in yours. “You’re doing great, Buck. And I’m proud of you.” Bucky glanced down at your hand in his, his thumb brushing over your knuckles as his expression softened. The quiet moment between you seemed to stretch, filled with the faint hum of cicadas and the distant laughter of your family inside the house.

“I didn’t think I’d fit in Doll,” he murmured, his voice low and almost hesitant. “I mean, this—your family, all this… normalcy. I wasn’t sure it was for me.”

You smiled, leaning into him just a little more. “You’re wrong, you know. You fit in just fine. Better than fine, actually. I think my dad’s ready to adopt you after that steak performance.”

A small laugh escaped him, a sound that was still rare enough to make your chest tighten with affection. “Yeah, your dad’s good people.”

“You’re good people,” you teased, nudging him lightly with your shoulder. “And, for the record, you’re doing a lot better than the time Uncle Rick burned half the backyard trying to light the BBQ.”

Bucky chuckled at that, the sound warming the cool night air. “Guess I’ve got that going for me.”

For a moment, the two of you simply sat there, watching the horizon as the last hints of sunlight disappeared and the stars began to blink into view. The quiet comfort between you felt like its own kind of holiday magic—simple, real, and grounding.

When he finally spoke again, his voice was quieter, more reflective. “Thanks for bringing me here. For… all of this.”

You turned to look at him, catching the vulnerability in his expression as he stared out at the stars. “You deserved it, Bucky,” you said softly. “You deserve every bit of this—every laugh, every hug, every moment of peace.”

His hand tightened slightly around yours, and when he turned his gaze to meet yours, there was something unspoken in his eyes—something raw and grateful. “You make it easier to believe that,” he said, barely above a whisper.

You smiled, leaning in to press a gentle kiss to his cheek. “Good. Because it’s true.”

The distant laughter of your family drifted out onto the porch, pulling both of you back to the present. Bucky glanced toward the house, his smile growing as he squeezed your hand. “So, when do I get my own honorary ugly Christmas shirt?”

You burst into laughter, shaking your head. “Oh, you’re in for it next year, Barnes. And it’s going to have tinsel.”

That night, after everyone else had gone to bed, you and Bucky found yourselves alone on the porch, the warm breeze carrying the scent countryside and flowers. The quiet intimacy of the moment wrapped around you both like a blanket.

Bucky reached out, brushing a strand of hair from your face. “You’ve given me something I didn’t think I’d ever have Doll,” he said quietly. “A home. A place I belong.”

Tears welled in your eyes as you leaned closer, pressing your forehead to his. “You are my home, Bucky. Always.” The kiss that followed was slow and tender, deepening as months of unspoken longing finally broke free. Bucky’s hands roamed your back, pulling you closer until you were both breathless. He scooped you into his arms, carrying you inside.

[kurozawa46]

A very Stucky holiday season ☆ ⋆｡°✩ ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎ

[navybrat817]

Hubby not only got me the one thing I asked for, the sweatshirt, he gifted me with a soft blanket and sequin pillow. 😂 That's love. ❤️

I hope everyone has a wonderful day. Sending all the love. ❤️

[gay-jewish-bucky]

✡︎ Pride Month - Stucky Aesthetic ✡︎

May it be Your will, our God and God of our ancestors, God of Ruth and Naomi, God of David and Jonathan, God of Joseph, God of all our queer ancestors whose names have been erased,  grant that this Pride month bring us joy and celebration,  and bestow upon us a long life... -Birkat Hodesh Ga’avah: A Blessing for Pride Month

[artwinx]

guess who's back... merry christmas and happy holidays everyone! 🎄♥️

my commissions are still open and you can support me on ko-fi

[buckyalpine]

OKAY!!! Hear me out...

Lemonade AU but holiday drabbles!!

Like the thought of y/n spending Christmas at the Barnes household makes me 😭

Or like y/n forcing Bucky to dress up for Halloween or vice versa 💘💘💘💘 and Winnie can’t help but laugh at their ridiculous costumes

OMG this au is underrated, yessss and we're just in time for Christmas. We love our sweet College Bucky with his pretty older reader (for reference, Bucky is in his early to mid 20's and reader is later 20's to mid 30's or just pick your own ages)

Lemonade Lemonade AU drabble Sour

Bucky spent the whole day with his mama putting up the tree and getting the lights set up outside. His nose and cheeks are red from the cold and he runs straight to you to warm up. You coo at how cute he looks, letting him nuzzle his face into your neck for warmth, sighing contently. He smirks, slipping his icy cold hands up your sweater making you squeal but he doesn't relent, hugging you tighter, stealing all your body heat. Imagine how excited Bucky gets when you come over later in the evening, dressed in the comfiest of clothes; his college sweats and hoodie which you love so much. You giggle at the way he trails behind you as you make your way to the kitchen, letting down the bottle of wine you bought for you and Winnie to share later.

Christmas is in a few days and you've already spoiled him by filling his stocking to the top and he's acts like a little kid, poking and prodding at the little gifts you've wrapped up, blushing whenever you catch him.

"Bucky, put that down, you'll get to see what I got you soon" You shake your head while he pouts, still clutching onto a red box.

"Just one, c'mon" He whines, only setting it down when you tempt him with some hot chocolate. He doesn't want you to lift a finger though so he scoops you up in his arms, plopping you down on the kitchen island before getting started on making some. He knows you love his ma's recipe and he's perfected it, seeing her make it every year, chopping a few slabs of dark and milk chocolate.

"Wan exta marmallows?" His voice is muffled after stuffing about 3 in his mouth and you snort in response, while he blinks at you with his cheeks full.

"Yes please, baby" You kiss his sugary sweet lips while he adds them to your mug, before pouring some for himself as well.

It would not be Christmas without cookies and it's a Barnes holiday tradition. Winnie and Becca join to measure ingredients and roll out dough while George gets started on a roast for dinner. It's absolutely chaotic and you wouldn't want to be anywhere else, surrounded by love in the kitchen, your cheeks heating up every time Bucky tries to sneak in a kiss when no one is looking.

-

As usual, this wasn't meant to be part of the story BUT imagine on Christmas day, everyone is unwrapping presents and its a house full of wrapping, sparkles, bows, hot chocolate and cookies. Winnie got everyone matching Pj's like she does every year. Steve and his family had joined as well, adding to the madness while Bucky cozies up with you on the couch, the fire place keeping you toasty along with how warm your boyfriend is.

Winnie gives George a knowing smile, the both of them proud of the son they raised, their little boy head over heels in love with you and ready to treat you right. They also know the gift you'd just opened from him isn't what he actually got you.

He brings you your actual gift later that evening when it's just the two of you in his room. A tiny box, wrapped perfectly with a gold bow on top. Everyone knew exactly what Bucky is up to because he'd been planning this for months. Working extra shifts, saving money on the side, anything and everything he could do just for this.

For you.

"Open it" he whispers, nervous while you pull at the bow, the both of you sitting in his bed.

"Jamie-baby, what did you do" You gasp, lifting the box, tears already welling along your lash line. The little diamonds on the tennis bracelet sparkle under the low light with a small note on the inside, reading from your Jamie.

"I-I couldn't get you anything for stocking because I wanted to get you this" He says with a small smile, feeling bad he couldn't spoil you more the way you deserved. "Do you like it?"

You wordlessly nod, biting down on your lip to keep from crying while he takes the box from you because you want him to put it on you. He takes the dainty bracelet, carefully clasping it around your hand, admiring how pretty it looks on you.

"You didn't have to baby" You whisper, sniffling while he pulls you onto his lap, "Bubba, it's too much-

He shuts you up with a kiss, shaking his head.

"It's not too much for you. I wanna spoil you" His puppy eyes are so sincere; you're it for him and he's it for you.

Let's not act like the night doesn't end with you wearing just the tennis bracelet with your hands covering each others mouths to keep your voices down while he-

[sorchathered]

Twelve days of Fic-mas!

Help me bring in the holiday season by sending requests for your favorite characters!

It can be mood boards, drabbles, playlists, a full blown fic, anything holiday themed to celebrate the season!

Characters I write for-

Bob Floyd

Jake Seresin

Rhett Abbott

Mickey Garcia

Bucky Barnes

Joaquin Torres

Ryan from Yellowstone

Dominick “Sonny” Carisi

Rafael Barba

Bradley Bradshaw (but only for @roosterforme )

Let’s have fun and celebrate!

A baby for Christmas with Bob Floyd

Rooster’s rockin’ around the Christmas tree

Jake and the Christmas Auction

All I want for Christmas is you, Sonny.

A cowboy for Christmas with Rhett

Under the mistletoe with Fanboy

Deck the halls with Joaquin Torres

Merry little Texas Christmas with Jake Seresin

Snowball fights in Central Park with Rafael Barba

Unwrap your present with Jake (and Bradley)

Chestnuts Roasting on an open fire, Rhett nipping at your neck

The Christmas Heist with Bucky

[incorrect-marvel-because-why-not]

The Avengers (+) On Gift Giving

Pepper: Absolutely wonderful, as usual. - But seriously: gives very practical, well thought out gifts.

Tony: I refer you to the bunny. Mostly makes or repairs stuff for people.

Thor: Decent at gift giving, but it's usually weapons, alcohol, or something he saw randomly in a shop window that he thinks he heard someone say they wanted. Basically, he gifts based on vibes.

Natasha: Gets something she knows someone wants but won't buy themselves (like a new printer or smth).

Clint: Inside jokes and cringey mugs/t-shirts/etc. are his go to.

Steve: Personalized paintings or things he knows someone specifically wants.

Bruce: Makes gifts unless he thinks of a specific thing for someone.

Peter Parker (yes, I am aware he is Jewish. this does not have to be for Christmas): Goes on one big shopping trip with nothing specific in mind with a list of people. Makes his own cards.

Sam: Depends on the person, but usually he does fun holiday stuff or books. (ex. Christmas tree mugs or personalized ornaments)

Rhodey: Asks people what they want. Sometimes gets things he thinks they need.

Bucky: Ridiculously good at getting exactly what someone wants without them saying anything about it.

T'Challa: Very spot-on gifts, that are very practical. This does not apply to Shuri, who gets memes (interpret that as you will).

Fury: Gift cards and passive-agressive books.

Maria Hill: Sticks to the classics. Socks, chocolate, ornaments, etc.

Coulson: Makes most gifts and cards off of memories and inside jokes. Very personal stuff.